The sun was shining and the ideas were flowing last week at the launch of the new Community Garden Project at Parkstone Day Centre. The event, led by the CAN Trusted Reviewer team, marked an exciting milestone in our work supporting Day Centre Hub Development across the BCP Council area. It was a fantastic opportunity to bring the community together, meet the team, and ensure the project is shaped by the very people it’s designed to support.

“I’m really looking forward to being a part of this project and seeing what the garden is going to look like. It went really well last week and can’t wait to see what the future holds for the Community Gardening Project”

• Katie Launder, Parkstone Connect & Moordown Plus, Team Leader

Collaborative roots and clear goals

The garden is being developed in close collaboration with Parkstone Day Centre and Roots, a voluntary gardening service that supports people with mental health conditions.

Following early discussions with older adults, adults with learning disabilities, and day centre staff, the project has developed two clear goals:

• The skills & social group: To start a new gardening group, offering people the chance to learn new skills, connect with others, and develop a sense of ownership and belonging to the outside space.
• The reflective sanctuary: To create a peaceful, inclusive section of the garden—a quiet space where people can sit, reflect, create, and share memories with others.

These goals align with CAN’s wider mission: to promote social connection, inclusive opportunities, and meaningful engagement for all, including older adults and adults with learning disabilities.

Trusted Reviewer Rosie Equi and friends at the launch

Urgent volunteer call: Design a sanctuary

While volunteers from Roots are already beginning the garden maintenance and bringing the first goal to life, we have a specific and exciting need right now. We are currently seeking an experienced volunteer gardener or landscape enthusiast who would be interested in dedicating their time and expertise to help design the Reflective Garden space.

This is a unique opportunity to make a lasting, meaningful contribution and leave your design legacy on a community space that will be enjoyed for years to come.

Get involved

If you are interested in this one-off design challenge or want to learn more about the project, please contact Rosie at rosie.equi@can100.org.

Learn more about the Trusted Reviewer team and our community initiatives. Thank you again to everyone who joined us at the welcome event. We’re excited to watch this project grow together!